The Oratory

“Our Christian communities must become genuine ‘schools’ of prayer, where the meeting with Christ is expressed not just in imploring help, but also in thanksgiving, praise, adoration, contemplation, listening, and ardent devotion until the heart truly ‘falls in love.’” – Pope John Paul II, Novo Millennio Ineunte

The word “oratory” means “a place of prayer.”The term was first used in the 6th century and was applied to small churches without baptisteries that were adjoined to the catacombs.In the 16th century, St. Philip Neri began holding gatherings of young Catholics in the city of Rome.The meetings, to which St. Philip ascribed the name Oratory, consisted of presentations on the spiritual life, Spirit-led discussions, experiences of prayer, the reading of Sacred Scripture, and sharing from the lives of the saints.The Oratory not only deepened the lives of those that attended, but became a source of spiritual renewal for the entire city of Rome.

Beginning February 4, 2009 Father Brian McMaster will guide us in a weekly experience of prayer and spiritual enrichment.Participants will learn the fundamentals of prayer and be exposed to forms of prayer beyond the beginnings.Topics will include the theology of prayer, praying with Scripture, meditation, contemplation, the discernment of spirits, and more.